Looking for a US-focused alternative to Spelling Shed? Here are the best options for American classrooms.
Spelling Shed is a popular spelling app, but it's designed for UK schools. If you're a US teacher, you may have noticed the British spelling conventions (color instead of color, favourite instead of favorite) and UK-focused word lists.
For American classrooms, you need an app that uses US spelling and aligns with your state standards. Here are the best alternatives for US teachers.
† Pricing note: Prices are checked against each vendor's official website or help center at the time of writing, but vendors change plans and prices at any time. Always confirm current pricing on the vendor's own site before purchasing. How we review and verify →
Simplex Spelling uses research-backed methods and is particularly effective for students with learning differences.
SpellingJoy is completely free for teachers and families. SpellingJoy+ is optional ($2.99/month) and adds all printable packs. SpellingJoy is a K-6 spelling practice platform: unlimited spelling games, unlimited tests, 134+ word lists, custom list creation, and progress tracking, all free.
Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app ($38/year) that offers gamified spelling practice with classroom features. It uses British English spelling and curriculum standards.
Spelling Shed is designed for UK schools with British spelling conventions (color, favourite) and UK curriculum. US teachers need apps aligned with American English and US state standards.
SpellingJoy is the best US alternative, offering 134+ word lists aligned to US curriculum standards, American English spelling, and text-to-speech with American pronunciation - all completely free.
SpellingJoy uses American English spelling throughout, making it perfect for US classrooms. Word lists are aligned to US state curriculum standards.
Yes! SpellingJoy is 100% free for all teachers, including unlimited students, custom word lists, progress tracking, and classroom management features.
Simplex Spelling is the pick for teachers who would rather buy once than subscribe: no subscription is required at all, which is the main thing Spelling Shed asks of you at $38 a year.
SpellingJoy is the free option, and the one built for American classrooms: US spelling, curriculum-aligned word lists, and American English pronunciation, with no subscription, no student limits and no hidden fees.
About the Author
SpellingJoy Team
The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We prioritize official product information and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.
SpellingJoy+
$2.99/month. All printable packs, teaching resources, premium packs. Cancel any time.
